Within the chaos of life from a personal and professional level, finding moments of peace and serenity is very crucial to our spirituality. I believe that being in touch with our spirituality is one way that can soothe us with all forms of growth. My journey to uplift my spirituality is filled with discoveries, challenges, and constant transformations. Here, I’ll share the practices that have significantly impacted my spiritual growth.
Growing up, I was always seen as an outsider or being told that I was “too much” or “not enough.” Phrases like these would easily make me insecure or question my own self-esteem. However, I was always proud to be an “alien,” as I trusted my journey was my journey. It does not matter how long it takes me to achieve or overcome certain challenges. I did not always know where my confidence came from until I started to discover the concept of a spiritual journey.
Embracing self-reflection is never easy for anyone, as we live in a world of hypocrisy or fear. The level of fear, insecurities, or hypocrisy that exist within us or others creates a reality of dystopia around us. Sitting still with our thoughts can be uncomfortable, but it is an amazing strength to hone. I started with just five minutes a day, focusing on my breath and allowing my adrenaline mind to settle. Over time, meditation became a sanctuary where I found clarity and inner peace. It was odd that something so simple can calm me more than hours of sessions with a psychologist. Guided meditations, available through any source media, were particularly helpful by creating a structure of direction.
Spending time in nature has been my favorite spiritual practice. I was always a fan of hiking, and it made sense the level of peace it brought. It was an escape from the chaos or noise around me. The fresh air, the sounds of birds, and the beauty of the landscape were always breathtaking. Each step in the forest or along the beach reminds us of the interconnectedness of all life.
Even though life was stressful at times, leading me to be anxious or depressed. I have learned to become more grateful for all the lessons, good and bad. Gratitude has transformed my perception of reality and illusions. I started with a gratitude journal, jotting down five things I was thankful for each day and looking forward to for the day. This simple practice grounds me to focus on what I have and can do rather than what I lack. It slowly shifted my heart to the abundance around me, from the warmth of a morning tea to the support of the loved ones. We often take so many things for granted, rather than appreciating the simple things that we have within us and around us. It became a lens through which I view the world, enhancing my overall sense of contentment.
Acts of kindness have always been apart of me, due to being a humanitarian soul. I wanted to do so much for the world, but it was easily overwhelming for me. Especially the level of chaos that exists and the lack of resources I have. Despite having a broad perspective, I prioritized beginning small by fulfilling my existing responsibilities and expanding from there. Volunteering remotely and on-site with different organizations allows me to be creative with my power of giving. I had to learn that even though the world will always be cruel, no matter what, it does not mean I should become like them by force. Each act of kindness can strengthen our belief that goodness of humanity does exist and reinforce my spiritual growth.
Reading or listening to spiritual texts can be enriching. These formats are not for everyone, as we all comprehend things at different levels and paces. I too had to read “Art of War” or “Bhagavad Gita” several times to understand the message. Sometimes, experiencing it through trial and error has humbled me to understand the insights it was trying to teach me. Reflecting on this wisdom helped me understand that no path is right or wrong. A path is a path to your higher self. Every action has an opposite reaction, good or bad, and will reward us accordingly.
Being mindful of the lessons I needed to learn was crucial. There were certain lessons that I did not learn fully yet and still repeat the cycle occasionally. Although knowing that I do want to make change within myself, no matter what it may be about, is enough progress for me. As any kind of progress is still progress. Being fully self-aware and present has heightened my awareness and connection to life.
Uplifting our spirituality is a personal journey, filled with unique experiences and transformations. While it can be easy to slip off the path a few times, it doesn’t mean you should give up. Even if you do give up from time to time, there is nothing wrong with it. As long as you embrace self-reflection, connecting with nature, practicing gratitude, engaging in acts of kindness, exploring spiritual texts, and more. You will gradually find the path that works for you, regardless of the chaos or noise around you. This journey is ongoing, and I invite you to explore these practices, find what resonates with you, and embark on your own path to spiritual growth. Embrace your path to find yourself again and again in order to seek the true peace and connection you seek within yourself or your surroundings 🙂
